Kidnapping and Idolatry in Ala Igbo: A Crisis Rooted in Social and Spiritual Neglect

The recent surge in kidnapping, idolatry, and other societal vices in Ala Igbo is not accidental. It is the outcome of years of negligence—both by Ndi Igbo themselves and by key institutions, particularly the church. What we see today is the tragic result of a society that has failed to confront evil, while celebrating wealth without questioning its source.

How Did We Get Here?

The rise of ndi amaghi aha (unknown gunmen) and the rampant activities of ndi oshi ego (fraudsters) in Ala Igbo is rooted in a culture of silence and complicity. Instead of condemning the growing criminality among our youths, many Igbo communities turned a blind eye, often rationalizing their actions as a reaction to marginalization or hardship. This silence emboldened these criminals and created an environment where lawlessness thrives.

Ndi Igbo, known for their ingenuity and resilience, are now facing an identity crisis. The communal values of omume ezi omume (good behavior) and ụmụ nnaya maka ibe ha (love for one another) have been replaced by a toxic culture that glorifies wealth at all costs.

The Role of the Church: Silence and Complicity

Traditionally, the church in Ala Igbo was a moral compass. It upheld values of hard work, honesty, and accountability. However, many church leaders today have abandoned their prophetic role. Instead of condemning societal vices like fraud and kidnapping, some pastors now flaunt their own wealth on social media, directly or indirectly encouraging others to follow suit.

It is heartbreaking to see the church hosting Thanksgiving services for individuals whose wealth has no clear or legitimate source. By celebrating these individuals, the church sends a dangerous message to the younger generation: that wealth, irrespective of its source, is to be admired. This uncritical celebration of material success undermines the church’s credibility and contributes to the erosion of moral values in Ala Igbo.

The Influence of Social Media on Ndi Igbo

Social media has exacerbated this crisis. Young people, driven by the need for validation and societal recognition, now showcase their ill-gotten wealth online. This toxic display of materialism feeds envy and creates an illusion that crime is a viable path to success. Unfortunately, this behavior has found acceptance among some Igbo communities and even within the church.

Instead of challenging this narrative, some church leaders and community elders have joined in the celebration. This unholy alliance between wealth and worship has normalized fraud, kidnapping, and ritual killings (ọgbụ ahụ mmadụ) as legitimate means to achieve success.

The Aftermath: Ala Igbo in Crisis

The consequences of this neglect are glaring. Kidnapping has become a booming business. Ritual killings are on the rise, as young people now seek wealth through arusi (traditional deities) and ikwu azụ (sacrificial rituals). Fraudsters, idolaters, and kidnappers have become role models for the next generation. The once-thriving Igbo land of enterprise, innovation, and communal living is now plagued by insecurity, mistrust, and moral decay.

Even more troubling is the resurgence of idolatry in Ala Igbo. Frustrated by the failure of legitimate systems, many have turned to traditional shrines and dibịa (native doctors) for wealth, protection, and power. This spiritual regression has deepened the crisis, trapping Ala Igbo in a vicious cycle of violence and despair.

Reclaiming Ala Igbo: A Call to Action

To address this crisis, Ndi Igbo must rise to reclaim their values and rebuild their society. The solution lies in a collective effort by the community, the church, and individuals.

1. The Church Must Speak Truth

Igbo church leaders must return to their role as moral and spiritual leaders. They must condemn fraud, kidnapping, and idolatry in clear terms. Churches should stop celebrating questionable wealth and instead promote values of hard work, humility, and integrity.

2. The Community Must Reject Evil

Ndi Igbo must stop excusing and glorifying evil. Communities should hold individuals accountable and refuse to celebrate those whose wealth comes from fraud or criminal activities. We must revive the Igbo principle of onye si ebe ọma bia, ka ọ bia gosi anyị (let the source of one’s wealth be known and proven).

3. Youth Empowerment and Education

To divert young people from crime, we must invest in education, skill acquisition, and entrepreneurial opportunities. A generation empowered with knowledge and skills will not resort to fraud or violence.

4. Reviving Igbo Values and Culture

Ala Igbo must return to its core values of ịgba mbo (hard work), ịrụ ụka ezi omume (standing for the truth), and ịkwanyere mmadụ ùgwù (respect for human dignity). These values must be taught at home, in schools, and in churches.

5. Social Media Responsibility

While social media is a powerful tool, it should be used to promote positive values. Ndi Igbo should discourage the toxic flaunting of wealth online and instead celebrate genuine achievements and contributions to society.

Conclusion

The crisis in Ala Igbo is not insurmountable. As a people, Ndi Igbo have always been known for their resilience, adaptability, and innovation. By addressing the root causes of kidnapping, idolatry, and fraud, and by reclaiming our cultural and spiritual values, we can restore the dignity and integrity of Ala Igbo. The time to act is now. Let us rise and rebuild! Ka anyị mee ka Ala Igbo bụrụ ihe anyị niile ga-enwe mpako maka ya.

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, during the annual Bishop’s retreat in Onitsha, made a thought-provoking statement that challenges the Church in Nigeria, particularly the Anglican Communion, to take stock of its membership and influence. He questioned the Church’s oft-repeated claim of having over 20 million members, urging leaders to re-evaluate whether this figure still holds true in light of the growing trend of secularism, idolatry, and diminishing moral values in society.

This call for introspection is timely. Governor Soludo’s remarks highlight a reality that many within the Church may have been reluctant to confront: Are we truly reaching the people, or have we lost our way?

The Decline in Church Membership: A Wake-Up Call

As noted in a previous analysis, Ala Igbo and much of Nigeria are grappling with a moral and spiritual crisis, fueled by the glorification of ill-gotten wealth, idolatry, and criminality. The Church, which should serve as a moral compass, has struggled to retain its influence in a society increasingly driven by materialism. Many youths have abandoned the Church, drawn instead to practices like arusi worship, ritual killings, and fraud, which promise quick wealth.

Governor Soludo’s challenge to the Church to “count again” is a reminder that membership numbers should not merely be an exercise in statistics. It is about evaluating the Church’s spiritual impact on its members and society. Are the lives of the claimed 20 million members reflecting the gospel message? If not, the Church must critically assess its methods, mission, and focus.

Taking Clear Statistics: Where Are We Now?

The first step in responding to the Governor’s call is to conduct a realistic and comprehensive review of the Church’s membership and influence.

Ven. David C.Nwanekpe

Rector.

January 11,2025.